Specialist in Land Condition (SiLC)

Scarcity of land and the need for sustainable land use is a pressing concern all around the globe. The UK government is committed to bringing brownfield sites back into use and relies on the expertise of industry, world-class universities and research institutions to tackle this complex area.

Specialist in Land Condition is the only qualification in the UK that recognises those who have a high level of competency and understanding of land condition matters. It is increasingly being recognised by government, commercial organisations and regeneration agencies.

Registered SiLC practitioners use their expert knowledge to effectively and safely manage the assessment of brownfield sites. They are able to give impartial, professional advice in their field of expertise and work in a range of engineering and scientific disciplines, including civil engineering, geology, chemistry and surveying.

As an accreditation body, SiLC also awards the designation of Suitably Qualified Person (SQP), part of the National Quality Mark Scheme that provides assurance to stakeholders that land contamination matters have been adequately addressed and managed.

The SiLC register is run by the SiLC Professional and Technical Panel (PTP) which includes representatives from eight professional bodies, the Royal Society of Chemistry being one of them.

Introduction days

SiLC Introduction Days are open to all those who are considering applying to become a SiLC. They will provide an overview of the SiLC scheme, information on the assessment process and an opportunity to meet peers and discuss your application with SiLC Assessors. The examination now embraces the requirements of the NQMS, subject to success in the SiLC exam and at the professional interview becoming a SiLC will automatically result in becoming an SQP. Delegates who attend will receive a £70 discount on their application fee.

You can find the dates of upcoming SiLC introduction days here

If you cannot attend the specified dates please email the SiLC team to be placed on a mailing list which will alert you when an SiLC Introduction Day has been arranged elsewhere. Your email will not be shared or used for anything other than for Introduction Day information.

Further information, including prices, can be found on the SiLC website.

Affiliate scheme

SiLC has created an affiliate scheme to assist graduates and more experienced individuals in working towards full membership of the RSC and chartered status before progressing towards SiLC/SQP registration.

Visit the SiLC website for more information

Why should I apply?

By becoming SiLC registered you will:

• elevate your credibility and reputation as a senior practitioner in the land assessment and brownfield regeneration sector
• demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high professional standards
• be included in the SiLC register
• have the option to become a Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) which will further bolster your credentials
• demonstrate personal and professional integrity

Who can apply?

To be eligible to apply you'll need:

• a Bachelor's degree, plus relevant professional experience (practical experience gained while doing postgraduate studies may count towards this)
• either MRSC or FRSC membership
• chartered status – Chartered Chemist (CChem), Chartered Scientist (CSci) or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv)
• to demonstrate relevant professional experience (practical experience gained while doing postgraduate studies may count towards this).

Not a member of the RSC? It's easy to join.

To upgrade to MRSC, visit the members' area.

How to apply

The registration process has three stages:

1. The application form
2. An individual written submission and question paper
3. Visit the SiLC website for more information about the qualification, cost and to apply